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A short rocky trail encircling the crater at the top of Lava Butte, offering 360-degree views and an active fire tower.


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Map Key

0.4

Miles

0.6

KM

82%

Runnable

5,013' 1,528 m

High

4,916' 1,498 m

Low

97' 30 m

Up

77' 23 m

Down

9%

Avg Grade (5°)

20%

Max Grade (11°)

Dogs Leashed

Features Geological Significance · Views

During summer, you'll have to take the shuttle bus from the Lava Lands Visitor Center. The shuttle costs $2 per person and exact change is required. It leaves approximately every 20 minutes.

Description

This is a short but wonderful trail at the top of Lava Butte that is accessible only by shuttle bus during peak months. The trail begins from the western edge of the parking area near a single outhouse. The trail descends a small amount along red rocks, offering open excellent views to the Sisters, Broken Top, Bachelor, and other mountains in addition to the entire lava flow from Lava Butte over 7,000 years ago.

At the southern edge of the loop, you'll be able to see the Trail of the Molten Land (Accessible) and visitors center below. The trail ends at the fire tower at the highest point. A paved path leads back down to the parking lot.

Flora & Fauna

Ground squirrels below and birds of prey above.

Contacts

Shared By:

Karl W

Trail Ratings

  4.0 from 3 votes

#12198

Overall
  4.0 from 3 votes
5 Star
33%
4 Star
33%
3 Star
33%
2 Star
0%
1 Star
0%
Trail Rankings

#377

in Oregon

#12,198

Overall
3 Views Last Month
685 Since Aug 2, 2019
Intermediate Intermediate

25%
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25%
25%
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Photos

North view from Lava Butte cinder cone.
Mar 19, 2019 near Deschut…, OR
Lava Butte Lookout close-up
Mar 19, 2019 near Deschut…, OR
Lava Butte Lookout house.
Mar 20, 2019 near Deschut…, OR

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